Xabi Alonso Wasn't Perfect, But Sacking Him Ignores Real Madrid's Real Problems

Real Madrid's abrupt dismissal of Xabi Alonso after just seven months in charge, following a 3-2 Supercopa de España defeat to Barcelona, fails to address the club's deeper structural issues under president Florentino Pérez.[2][1] Alonso, a club legend who returned last summer to replace Carlo Ancelotti, departs with a solid record of 22 wins, four draws, and five losses in 31 matches, leaving Madrid second in LaLiga (four points behind leaders Barcelona) and seventh in the Champions League group stage.[1][3]

The ESPN analysis argues Alonso's sacking—making him the tenth permanent manager fired by Pérez without completing a year—stems more from Pérez's priorities than tactical failures.[2] A pivotal incident was October's Clásico victory, where Vinícius Júnior publicly erupted in frustration upon substitution, shouting, "This is why I'm leaving this team!"[2] Despite Alonso later rehabilitating the star forward, who delivered a standout performance in the Supercopa, Pérez prioritized securing Vinícius's contract renewal over backing his coach.[2][3]

Alonso faced challenges replicating his Bayer Leverkusen success, where he dethroned Bayern Munich to win the Bundesliga.[1] Critics cite a lack of team vigor, inconsistent pressing, physical preparation doubts, and dressing room divisions, including fallout with Vinícius and reduced minutes for young talents like Arda Güler.[5] Yet, recent wins over Sevilla, Betis, and Atlético showed players rallying behind him, suggesting momentum before the Barcelona loss sealed his fate.[2]

Club legend Álvaro Arbeloa, Castilla coach since June 2025, was swiftly appointed as replacement, indicating pre-planned timing.[1][4] While Spanish media anticipated trouble earlier, the move shocked many, overlooking Madrid's squad imbalances and Pérez's history of short managerial tenures.[2] Alonso exits as a top managerial prospect, but Real Madrid's "unique" demands prevail.[2][3]

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